Stronger India-U.S. Relations Would Benefit Both Countries, Amitabh Kant Says

New Delhi — Stronger economic and strategic ties between India and the United States would benefit both countries as India continues its emergence as a major global economy, former G20 Sherpa and NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant said Monday.

Kant’s remarks came amid indications that U.S. President Donald Trump could visit India early next year as the two countries continue negotiations over a bilateral trade agreement.

Speaking to IANS, Kant said the Indian government has consistently sought to maintain close relations with the United States, one of the country’s most important trade and investment partners.

“The United States is a major trading and investment partner of India, and it will be mutually beneficial for both countries if India continues to expand its relationship with America,” he said.

Kant noted that the United States accounts for nearly 26 percent of global gross domestic product and almost half of worldwide market capitalization. The country also remains a leader in several emerging and frontier technologies.

“India’s growth trajectory can significantly benefit from deeper engagement with the American market,” Amitabh Kant told IANS.

He added that the United States must also recognize India’s growing economic and geopolitical importance.

Kant said India is seeking to expand from a $4 trillion economy to a $30 trillion economy as it works toward becoming a developed country under the government’s Viksit Bharat vision.

He also pointed to India’s democratic system and recent economic reforms, describing the country as a vibrant democracy that has undertaken some of the world’s most significant economic transformations.

His comments followed an indication from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio that Washington is working to arrange a visit by Trump to India early next year. Rubio is also expected to travel to India later this year to prepare for the proposed presidential visit. (Source: IANS)